Trump has strong ties to sport, having previously been a close associate of former heavyweight world champion boxer Mike Tyson, who fought at Trump Plaza and was a vocal supporter of his. Trump also once owned now-defunct American football team the New Jersey Generals.

However, not all reactions were positive. Tennis legend Martina Navratilova was quick to voice her opinion, claiming she "knew America was racist but not this much."

I knew America was racist but not this much. And I had no idea America was this sexist. Shame on us...

US soccer star Megan Rapinoe was also unhappy with the result, referencing CNN political commentator Van Jones' views during a panel discussion where he described Trump's victory as 'whitelash' against a black president.

Thank you @VanJones68 it's incredibly brave and honest of you to speak with such conviction and intelligence.

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid, an outspoken supporter of Clinton in the build-up to the vote, tried to lighten the mood with a clever play on words about his own team's fortunes in recent seasons.